The stage is set for the third and final T20I between New Zealand Women and Australia Women, scheduled to take place on March 26, 2025, at Sky Stadium, Wellington. With Australia leading the series 2-0, they will be looking to complete a dominant clean sweep, while New Zealand will be desperate to secure a consolation win and avoid a humiliating whitewash at home.
The series so far has been a one-sided affair, with Australia proving to be far too strong for the Kiwis. They have outperformed the hosts in all departments, with Beth Mooney and Annabel Sutherland leading the charge. Meanwhile, New Zealand’s batting unit has struggled to put up a competitive fight, relying heavily on Sophie Devine and Amelia Kerr to carry them through.
As the teams gear up for the final showdown, New Zealand will need to come up with a solid game plan to counter Australia’s relentless dominance. Can they bounce back and finish the series on a high, or will Australia complete yet another ruthless series win?
Match Details
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Fixture: New Zealand Women vs Australia Women, 3rd T20I
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Date & Time: March 26, 2025 | 02:45 PM local / 07:15 AM IST / 01:45 AM GMT
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Venue: Sky Stadium, Wellington
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Live Streaming: JioCinema, Amazon Prime (in India), Fox Sports (in Australia)
Series Recap: Australia’s Commanding Lead
Australia entered this series as clear favorites, and they have lived up to expectations by securing back-to-back victories in the first two matches. Their performances have been marked by explosive batting, disciplined bowling, and clinical fielding.
In the 1st T20I, Australia posted a daunting total, thanks to a match-winning 70+ knock by Beth Mooney. The New Zealand batters struggled under pressure and fell short in the chase.
The 2nd T20I followed a similar script, where Australia’s all-round performance ensured a comfortable victory. Annabel Sutherland starred with the ball, dismantling New Zealand’s top order, while Ellyse Perry and Phoebe Litchfield made valuable contributions with the bat.
With these dominant wins, Australia has now won four consecutive T20I matches against New Zealand, dating back to their previous encounters in 2024.
Sky Stadium Pitch Report & Weather Conditions
Pitch Analysis
Sky Stadium is traditionally known for its batting-friendly surface, where the ball comes onto the bat nicely, allowing stroke-makers to play their shots freely. The true bounce and short boundaries make it a paradise for batters, ensuring high-scoring encounters.
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Average 1st innings score: 154
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Average 2nd innings score: 130
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T20I matches played: 19
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Wins by batting first: 9
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Wins by chasing team: 10
With these stats in mind, teams winning the toss might prefer chasing unless they are confident in their bowling attack.
Weather Forecast
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Conditions: Partly cloudy
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Temperature: 20°C (69°F)
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Humidity: 65%
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Chance of Rain: 5%
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Wind Speed: 10 km/h
The weather is expected to remain clear, ensuring an uninterrupted game.
Key Players to Watch Out For
Australia Women
1. Beth Mooney (Wicketkeeper-Batter)
Beth Mooney has been in sublime form this series. She has played anchor roles as well as attacking innings when required. Her ability to adapt to match situations makes her one of Australia’s biggest assets.
2. Annabel Sutherland (All-rounder)
One of Australia’s best all-rounders, Sutherland has been effective with both bat and ball. Her match-winning spells have made her a game-changer, and she will be crucial again in this match.
3. Ellyse Perry (All-rounder)
A veteran of the game, Perry’s experience is invaluable. She can stabilize the innings, accelerate when required, and contribute with the ball as well.
4. Georgia Wareham (Bowler)
Wareham has been one of the most economical bowlers in the series. She will once again be tasked with controlling the run flow in the middle overs.
New Zealand Women
1. Sophie Devine (All-rounder)
The New Zealand skipper will need to step up if her team wants to avoid a whitewash. Devine has had an average series so far, but if she fires, New Zealand has a real chance.
2. Amelia Kerr (All-rounder)
Amelia Kerr is one of the most consistent performers for New Zealand. She will be expected to play a key role with both the bat and ball.
3. Suzie Bates (Batter)
Bates is one of New Zealand’s most experienced batters, and her ability to take on the Aussie bowlers will be crucial.
4. Jess Kerr (Bowler)
With the Kiwis struggling in the bowling department, Jess Kerr’s performance will be key. She needs to lead from the front and find breakthroughs at crucial moments.
Dream11 Fantasy Prediction
Fantasy cricket players will be keen on picking the best XI for the final match. Here are some top suggestions:
Wicketkeeper
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Beth Mooney (Safe pick)
Batters
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Ellyse Perry
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Suzie Bates
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Phoebe Litchfield
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Georgia Voll
All-rounders
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Sophie Devine
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Amelia Kerr
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Annabel Sutherland
Bowlers
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Georgia Wareham
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Alana King
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Jess Kerr
Captain & Vice-Captain Choices
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Choice 1: Annabel Sutherland (C), Amelia Kerr (VC)
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Choice 2: Beth Mooney (C), Suzie Bates (VC)
Squads
Australia Women
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Beth Mooney (wk)
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Georgia Voll
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Phoebe Litchfield
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Ellyse Perry
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Ashleigh Gardner
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Annabel Sutherland
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Tahlia McGrath (c)
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Grace Harris
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Georgia Wareham
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Megan Schutt
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Darcie Brown
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Kim Garth
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Alana King
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Nicole Faltum
New Zealand Women
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Suzie Bates (c)
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Georgia Plimmer
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Amelia Kerr
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Sophie Devine
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Brooke Halliday
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Maddy Green
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Jess Kerr
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Polly Inglis (wk)
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Lea Tahuhu
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Rosemary Mair
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Eden Carson
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Fran Jonas
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Bella James
Match Prediction
Can New Zealand Upset Australia?
Based on current form and team depth, Australia enters this match as the clear favorite. They have outclassed New Zealand in every aspect of the game and will likely do so again.
However, New Zealand is playing at home, and if their senior players step up under pressure, they could spring a surprise.
Prediction: Australia Women to win and complete a 3-0 clean sweep. 🎯
Final Thoughts
The third T20I is not just another game; it is a test of New Zealand’s resilience and a chance for them to restore some pride. While Australia aims for yet another dominant series win, New Zealand has one last opportunity to make a statement.
Will Australia continue their dominance, or will New Zealand pull off a stunning comeback? 🏏🔥 March 26 holds the answer!
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